Independent Marine Surveyors & Consultants.
Supporting P&I Clubs, Ship Owners, Charterers, and other Maritime Parties.
Since 1988
Reliable. Fast. Worldwide deployable.
Your eyes and ears in the field of Marine Surveys and Consultancy. From our home base in
Rotterdam-Maasvlakte, one of the world's most important ports, we support P&I Clubs, ship owners, charterers, marine insurers, and other maritime parties with independent surveys and inspections.
Rotterdam based - Globally Active
SERVICES
Every day, millions of euros worth of cargo are at stake.
That is why the maritime sector relies on Van Karsen, for accurate inspections and surveys, clear reports and professional advice.
Project cargoes
Marine warranty surveys
Load | stow surveys
Terminal operations
General cargoes
P&I surveys
Marine casualty related cargo operations
Nautical investigations | Nautical surveys
Port operations
Dry bulk cargoes
Vessel inspections
Risk consultancy
Transport | Logistics
Cargo damage surveys
Containerized cargoes
Known for Excellence in
Marine Warranty Surveys and Heavy Lift & Project Cargo
Independent Marine Surveyors | Based in Rotterdam | Globally Active
At Van Karsen, we specialize in complex marine surveys involving heavy lift and project cargo operations. From engineered lashing plans to on-site inspections and incident investigations, we ensure that oversized and high-value cargo is secured, handled, and transported in accordance with international standards and industry best practices.
Cargo Securing & Lashing Inspections
- Inspection of heavy and oversized units (e.g. turbines, generators, reactors, offshore modules)
- Verification of securing arrangements
- Supervision of lifting, loading and stowage operations
- Engineering review of lashing plans and lifting procedures
Pre-Load, On-Hire & Condition Surveys
- Full condition documentation of cargo and carrying vessel
- Detection of pre-existing damage or inadequate preparation
- On-/off-hire inspection protocols tailored to heavy lift operations
Stability & Stowage Compliance
- Cross-checking vessel stability under dynamic loading conditions
- Advice on deck strength limits, centre of gravity (CoG), and load distribution
- Stowage plans for multi-port and sensitive cargo
Damage & Incident Investigations
- Structural damage assessments after lifting, shifting, or securing failures
- Photographic and technical documentation for insurance claims
- Root cause analysis and mitigation reporting
Why Clients Choose Van Karsen
✔ Deep technical knowledge of heavy lift dynamics
✔ Direct operational experience with multipurpose (MPP), heavy lift, and semi-submersible vessels
✔ Independent and reliable reporting – trusted by P&I clubs, underwriters, and project cargo managers
✔ 24/7 availability – fast mobilization in all major European ports
Let's Secure Your Cargo – Professionally
Project cargo doesn’t allow room for assumptions. With Van Karsen, you have a dedicated survey partner who understands the complexity of heavy lift logistics — from cradle to cradle.
📍 Based in Rotterdam | Available worldwide
📧
Get in touch to discuss your next project
One-off survey or
long-term cooperation
Seeking a marine expert who combines swift execution with deep expertise?
Van Karsen is an independent marine survey and consultancy firm, specializing in comprehensive nautical surveys and inspections. We deliver objective insight, reliable reporting, and tailored maritime solutions across the full spectrum of operations.
Strategically located in the Port of Rotterdam, we are immediately available for port-related assignments. Our operations follow industry-compliant working methods, supported by clear reporting, objective advice, and 24/7 availability for urgent requests.
Meet Our Skilled Professionals
Meet the Team.
Experienced. Hands-on. Reliable.
At Van Karsen, our strength lies in the expertise of our people. With decades of combined field experience, our team brings a practical, solutions-driven mindset to every project — whether it’s a complex heavy lift survey or a routine on-hire inspection.
Elbert Francke
Senior Marine Surveyor | NIVRE
Elbert specializes in damage investigations and condition surveys, supporting insurers, P&I clubs, and shipowners with detailed assessments and objective findings. His sharp eye for detail and structured documentation style provide clarity in even the most complex cases. Elbert has in depth knowledge and experience as MWS in the field of heavy lift and project cargoes
Hugo Verheij
Senior Marine Surveyor
With a strong background in marine operations, Hugo has surveyed a wide range of heavy lift and offshore transport projects worldwide. He is known for his meticulous approach, technical accuracy, and clear reporting – especially in high-stakes operations.
Why
choose
Van Karsen?
We work quickly, expertly and independently. Whether it is a one-off survey or long-term cooperation – Van Karsen stands for quality, reliability and results.
✔ Short lines, quickly on site
✔ Independent and results-oriented
✔ Years of experience in shipping
✔ Reliable reports for insurers, ship owners and ship brokers
What Our Clients Say
"An operation that ultimately ends in success, thank you Hugo!!"
L. P. - Operations Manager Cargo and freight company
Our Success in Numbers
7.000+
Get in Touch with Van Karsen
For inquiries or urgent assignments, our team is ready to assist you. Reach out to us anytime for expert marine surveying and consultancy services.
Contact us today to discuss your needs or to schedule a survey. We are available 24/7 to ensure you receive the support you require, whenever you need it.